1. Orson Welles, Citizen Kane
Citizen Kane is considered by many to be the greatest film ever made, and there is absolutely no question that it is the greatest directorial debut of all time. At age 25, Welles, already a star on stage and radio, was given full control over his first film, which he also co-wrote and starred in. Playing the great American newspaper magnate Charles Foster Kane, Welles show us his life through a varied stream of flashbacks, as to how great one man can be, and how hard he can also fall. Although the history and controversy behind the making of the film sometimes overshadows the film itself, one thing can be sure, is that director Welles had all the right pieces going for him in his debut. Director Welles and his production team set many standards for modern film-making techniques that are still used today. Using a non-linear narrative, with different characters telling the story gives Citizen Kane it's own unique voice, as Welles tells Kane's stories through the voices of the ones who knew him best. His use of deep focus, stark shadows and visual imagery were highlighted throughout the film, creating shots that could speak louder than words ever could. Welles openly admitted to being ignorant on his knowledge of film-making while preparing for Citizen Kane, so he just decided to throw in every style and see what happened. Ignorance can sometimes be bliss. Citizen Kane was not financially successful when initially released, and although Welles made several other great films as both an actor and director, he was never allowed the creative freedom he was granted when he made his directorial debut, thus, Citizen Kane was a one of a kind film from a one of a kind genius. Did we miss another great directorial debut? Drop us a comment below with your thoughts.